The Importance of Lankinen's Performance

Where would the Vancouver Canucks be this season without the remarkable Kevin Lankinen? With goaltender Thatcher Demko's uncertain return and Arturs Silovs struggling at the onset, Lankinen has proven invaluable. Boasting an impressive .920 save percentage, he has anchored the Canucks, helping them secure points in all six games he has started, including four victorious outings.

“Lankinen's acquisition was a monumental move by Patrik," head coach Rick Tocchet commented. “He's been a game changer from the start, contributing significantly.”

Reading as a Source of Inspiration

So, what fuels Lankinen’s stellar performance? Surprisingly, it’s his passion for reading. He credits this hobby for helping him maintain focus and energy away from the rink.

**“Switching off from hockey preserves my energy,”** explains Lankinen, emphasizing the mental balance that reading brings to his life.

A Lifelong Love for Literature

His devotion to literature isn't new; he founded an online book club aimed at enhancing literacy among Finnish youth and was honored with the Role Model of the Year award at the 2020 Finnish Sports Gala. Lankinen started reading hockey books as a child, a passion that blossomed during his teenage years.

Personal Growth Through Reading

Through reading, Lankinen believes he not only grows as a player but as a person. “Experiencing different perspectives through books enriches my understanding of the world, making me a better athlete."

Even during the demanding hockey season, reading remains an essential part of his routine as it helps him unwind. Lankinen takes his books wherever he goes, finding solace in literature that detracts from the screen time that typically dominates athletes' lives. “It truly aids my sleep, especially during busy travel days,” he adds.

Building Connections Through Shared Interests

**“He's extremely interesting and intelligent,”** says teammate Quinn Hughes, who also shares Lankinen's enthusiasm for reading. Their shared interest fosters a deeper connection beyond the sport.

Recommending Powerful Literature

One of Lankinen’s recommended reads is “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara—a powerful exploration of trauma and healing that challenges conventional expectations of literature typically associated with athletes. He revels in literature that leads to personal growth and self-discovery.

Reading as a Tool for Self-Understanding

“Reading isn't just an escape for me; it's a chance to improve my mindset and understand myself better,” Lankinen reflects, echoing the sentiment that books are pivotal in shaping both his character and game performance.

Quality Time with Family

Lankinen spends quality time discussing literature with his wife, an avid reader herself. They often choose books together to deepen their conversations and explore new ideas. "We aim to grow as human beings," he asserts, highlighting the importance of legacy beyond just athletic success.

Current Literary Pursuits

His current reads include works by Hermann Hesse, such as "Siddhartha," and he recently discovered "The Hidden Life of Trees," which he looks forward to exploring.

Balancing Life and Hockey

Despite his literary pursuits, hockey remains Lankinen’s primary focus. In the offseason, he prioritizes outdoor activities and time with loved ones over novels. “During the summer, my reading takes a backseat as we indulge in nature—hiking and exploring beautiful places like Squamish and Grouse Mountain,” he confides.

Preparation Leading to Success

After a rigorous preparation last offseason, Lankinen's efforts are reflected in his outstanding performance on the ice, helping solidify his position as the team’s starting goaltender. This season, he's not only proving his worth, but he may also have secured more game time to ensure that when Demko returns, it won't be as taxing on him throughout the season.

“I’ve prepared for this moment for years, making sure I have the physical and mental tools to succeed,” he explains. Despite being a 29-year-old veteran in the NHL, Lankinen feels youthful in spirit and is continually driven to improve.

A Passion for Goaltending

From a young age, he was drawn to goaltending—not only by the attention-grabbing gear but through sheer passion and determination. "I loved being in front of the puck, and even when I played defense, I was always trying to block shots."

Conclusion: The Journey of Continuous Growth

In hockey as in life, Lankinen's story reminds us of the importance of balance, perspective, and continuous growth in pursuit of excellence.